How can I be sure that a skilled migrant is qualified to work in my industry?
Prior to arrival skilled migrants can arrange to have their qualifications assessed by the relevant body. Assessment is an important task as it ensures that skilled migrants are able to work in their related field as soon as possible after arriving in Australia. Assessment will require participants to provide proof of their qualifications and evidence of working in their field. Collating this material is much easier for the skilled migrant if it is undertaken prior to arrival.
Depending on the profession or trade some assessment processes can only be undertaken after arrival. To avoid unnecessary delays it is important to research requirements specific to each business or industry and liaise with the relevant registering authorities, noting that registration requirements for some skills vary from State to State. In Victoria the first step in the assessment process involves contacting either of the following authorities:
For overseas degrees and/or diploma certificates contact:
- Overseas Qualifications Unit (OQU)
Department of Victorian Communities
Telephone: (03) 9208 3317
International Call: 61 3 9208 3317
Email: oqu@employment.vic.gov.au
Website: www.employment.vic.gov.au
- For trades certificates contact:
Trades Recognition Australia (TRA)
Telephone: (03) 6121 7456
International Call: 61 3 6121 7456
Email : traenquiries@dewr.gov.au
- Researching skills and related qualifications:
DIMA have a detailed listing of positions and related qualifications on their website.
Australia Skills Recognition Information (ASRI)
Website: http://www.immi.gov.au/asri/index.htm
RMIF Training Assistance for Skilled Migrants
Skilled Migrants arriving in the Geelong and Colac region are often required to undertake training to meet:
- Victorian trade registration
- Professional registration
- Australian workplace safety standards
- Specific industry needs
The Geelong and Colac RMIF can provide funding assistance to businesses that have employed a full-time skilled migrant. To qualify the employer will need to demonstrate that the skilled migrant requires specific training to better prepare them for the local workplace. The course must be identified by the employer and submitted for approval through the local RMIF program.
Training could be provided through a recognised industry trainer or education institution such as the Gordon Institute of TAFE. The type of course that may be undertaken is not prescriptive and is intended to respond to business and industry needs. Examples of relevant courses include:
- English language assistance
- Occupational Health and Safety Training
- Red Card Training
- High Voltage Electrical Operator Training
- Certificate 3 Aged Care
- LEA(Lic Electricians A/ment)Safe Working Practice(SWP)for Electricians
- Responsible Service of Alcohol
- Fire Warden Training
Funding to train each skilled migrant is available until 30 June 2007. If you have already employed a skilled migrant or are about to engage in skilled migration and have identified a training need you should seek advice through the Geelong and Colac RMIF program.
For further information on training assistance contact:
